HBO issues statement on the death of Hall of Fame boxing trainer Emanuel Steward

Hall of Fame boxing trainer Emanuel Steward died on Wednesday at the age of 68 after a brief illness.

The Detroit Free Press said Steward had been in a Chicago-area hospital for several weeks after undergoing surgery for what was termed diverticulitis.

Steward was a trainer for Tommy Hearns, among many boxing greats, but was best known since 2001 as a commentator on HBO's boxing coverage. He worked most often with Jim Lampley and Larry Merchant.

HBO immediately released a statement, saying:

"There are no adequate words to describe the enormous degree of sadness and loss we feel at HBO Sports with the tragic passing of Manny Steward. For more than a decade, Manny was a respected colleague who taught us so much not only about the sweet science but also about friendship and loyalty. His energy, enthusiasm and bright smile were a constant presence. Ten bells do not seem enough to mourn his passing. His contributions to the sport and to HBO will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”